Mankato Community Education

This category offers a diverse range of courses in arts, science, technology, and hobbies, designed for individuals of all ages. Whether you're a young learner exploring new interests, a teen developing specialized skills, or an adult pursuing a passion, these programs provide opportunities for creativity, discovery, and hands-on learning. Courses range from artistic expression and craft-making to hobby activities, fostering a culture of curiosity, innovation, and personal growth at every stage of life.

Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) provides programming and service to families of young children. ECFE includes Parent-Child Activity Time, Parent Education Time and Children's Activity Time.

Where It All Begins! Exciting things are coming to the MAPS Preschool Program for the 2025-2026 school year! MAPS preschool is a fee based program that offers high quality programming and age appropriate learning for 3 and 4 year old children. For more information, please visit our MAPS preschool website and review the program guide. Sliding fee and Income based scholarship opportunities are available for eligible residents of the district. Voluntary Prekindergarten funding is available with updated criteria due to legislative changes. Eligibility will be determined from your preschool application. NEW PROGRAM OPTIONS FOR 2025-2026 3 years old by September 1st Cost $185/month (there will be no transportation or extended care for MAPS 3's in 25-26) (The 3's classes at the Center for Learning are currently full. Applicants will be placed on a waiting list. There are still openings in the morning 3's class at the Eagle Lake location.) Preschool 3's Morning Preschool (T/W/TH) 8:15 to 10:45 am at the Center for Learning or Eagle Lake Elementary Preschools 3's Afternoon Preschool (T/W/TH) 12:15 to 2:45 pm at the Center for Learning 4 years old by September 1st Preschool 4's Full Day Preschool (M-F) 8 am to 2:30 pm at the Center for Learning Cost $650/month includes breakfast and lunch Preschool Plus (4's Full Day Preschool PLUS extended care) (The Preschool Plus program is currently full. Applicants will be placed on a waiting list.) (M-F) 7:30 am to 5:30 pm at the Center for Learning (7:30 to 8 am early care, 8 am to 2:30 pm preschool, 2:30 to 5:30 pm late care) Cost $1,000/month flat fee includes preschool, extended care, breakfast and lunch There is a $25 non-refundable registration fee for an accepted application. You will not be charged a registration fee if the class is full. NOTE: Students with an active special education IEP and a district paid placement in preschool should complete the district registration through infinite campus. This ELEYO application is not needed unless you are requesting Preschool Plus. Preschool Plus is not guaranteed. January 29th Applications Open February 28th Round 1 Application Selection and Notification March - August Ongoing selection and notification May 15th Scholarship Applications available July-October Scholarships Awarded Please reach out to our office if you need this information translated or need support with registration. Fadlan la xidhiidh xafiiskayaga haddii aad u baahan tahay in macluumaadkan la turjumo, ama aad u baahan tahay taageero luuqad kale oo diiwaan-gelin ah. Si usted necesita ayuda con la traducción de esta información en español o en otro idioma favor de llamar a nuestra oficina. Mankato Area Public Schools Early Learning- 507-625-4620

These activities are made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

This professional learning services course is provided by MAPS Early Learning Licensed Professionals and introduces some practical applications to enhance your abilities in forming secure, calm and reliable relationships with the children in your care. Gain insight into new ways to understand challenging behaviors and explore strategies for responding to children's social emotional needs. Calm and reliable connection with an early care provider is the foundation for children's engagement and all learning in the classroom.

A variety of opportunities for Pre K - 12 grade youth.